Mt Hagen, in Western Highlands province, is entering a new phase of aviation development following the official launch of a K39.4 million runway upgrade at Kagamuga Airport last week.
Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi, announced the project on April 28, describing it as a major step forward for infrastructure development in the Highlands region.
In his keynote address, Minister Goi acknowledged the patience of leaders and communities in Western Highlands, as well as neighbouring provinces including Simbu and Enga, highlighting the growing demand for an airport capable of handling larger aircraft.
He said the project is a key priority for the National Government and is being funded internally through the National Airports Corporation (NAC) to ensure Mt Hagen remains a major aviation hub, second only to Port Moresby.
NAC Acting Managing Director Dominic Kaumu, said the upgrade will replace the existing bituminous runway surface with a more durable asphalt concrete overlay.
He confirmed that K4 million has already been paid to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to mobilise materials and begin work.
Mr. Kaumu said the upgrade is necessary to support Air Niugini’s transition to larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 fleet, which will increase passenger capacity on Highlands routes.
He added that the project is expected to be completed by December 2026 to accommodate increased travel demand during the Christmas period.
Meanwhile, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa, welcomed the project, saying delays in the past had caused concern among leaders and the business community.
He described Kagamuga Airport as a critical gateway for the region, with millions of people passing through the province, placing pressure on infrastructure and public services.
Governor Rapa also urged contractors to ensure high-quality work, noting that previous upgrades had not lasted, and called on the community and security forces to support the project and protect workers during construction.
Minister Goi also outlined immediate measures to improve the airport environment, including plans to relocate nearby markets and enforce restrictions on betelnut and cigarette sales around the terminal area.
He said these changes are part of broader efforts to modernise airport operations ahead of future developments under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase Three (CADIP III), which is expected to include further runway extensions and terminal upgrades from 2028.
The Minister also encouraged greater participation in aviation training programs, emphasising the need to prepare a local workforce to support the country’s expanding aviation infrastructure.
